A metalworking composition in the form of a stable emulsion having lubricating as well as cleaning properties which is based essentially on non-hazardous components. The composition comprises a homogenous mixture of water, a vegetable oil, a phosphatide, a thickening agent and an emulsifying system consisting of an anionic surfactant and a nonionic biodegradable detergent. The emulsion-type mixture can be prepared through sequential addition of the non-hazardous components followed by homogenization in a high-speed mixture. A concentrated lubricant is thereby obtained which readily forms an adhering film on the surface of a metallic workpiece and all types of metalworking mediums during machining operations to effectively prevent galling or fouling. The metalworking composition is environmentally safe and significantly reduces problems associated with cleanup and corrosion.
